Overview

Principal Mechanical Engineer – Defence

Location: Cumbria, hybrid working available.

Security: UK Security Clearance is required for this role. Due to project requirements, the successful candidate must be a sole British national.

Copello are working with a leading defence organisation who are looking for a Principal Mechanical Engineer to join their growing engineering team. This is a rare opportunity to work on high-profile, complex engineering projects at the forefront of the UK’s defence capability.

The role

You will be a key figure in supporting the delivery of critical mechanical systems, working closely with build and production teams to ensure that the end product meets exacting design and quality standards. Your work will involve assessing and implementing design changes, supporting major construction milestones, and providing engineering expertise to overcome complex technical challenges.

Key responsibilities

• Provide engineering support to ensure final build quality aligns with original design intent
• Assess, implement, and justify design changes to major structural components
• Act as engineering representative in test and authorisation activities
• Develop specialist knowledge of complex build sequences and provide ongoing support during construction
• Deliver robust technical solutions to emergent build challenges
• Engage with key stakeholders to support or challenge requirements where appropriate

Essential skills & experience

• Degree in Mechanical or Structural Engineering (or equivalent experience)
• Strong understanding of mechanical drawings, GD&T, and engineering tolerances
• Knowledge of welding engineering and NDE techniques
• Excellent technical report writing and justification skills
• Understanding of stress, fatigue, and thermal analysis
• Awareness of nuclear radiation shielding principles
• Experience within a regulated or nuclear environment
• Familiarity with compliance standards and regulatory processes

To apply, please send your CV to aaron@copello.co.uk

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Engineering, Other, and Product Management

Industries

• Engineering Services, Defense and Space Manufacturing, and Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing